Concept cars represent possible future versions of manufacturer vehicles. Designed to highlight new technologies and vehicle styling, concept cars often find their way into the public eye during annual auto shows held around the globe. Whether a concept vehicle sees the light of day depends in large part on the interest and demand when it is presented at auto shows. Finding and buying a concept car is the dream of many automotive enthusiasts. By following some simple advice, you too can drive home in one of these dream vehicles.
Method 1 of 4: Finding a car online
One of the best places to look for a concept car is on the Internet. The web offers you a variety of options for where to look for information, including websites geared toward concept vehicles and auction sites where you can buy the concept car you've always wanted outright. One popular website where you can find a variety of concept cars is eBay Motors.
Step 1: Log on to the appropriate auction site: Log into a site, such as eBay Motors, in order to look at, bid on, and buy the concept car of your choice.
In order to bid, you need an account at the site you use.
Step 2: Enter in the search term: You can either enter a basic search term, such as "concept cars," or the name of the specific vehicle you seek.
Once you pull up the vehicle listings, you can further refine your search using the categories listed.
Step 3: Find a vehicle you are interested in: After you find the vehicle listings you are interested in, you can click on individual listings.
Make sure to read the listing description for any special terms, such as who pays shipping, the payment type the seller prefers, and other important details dealing with the sale of the vehicle.
- Warning: Keep in mind that you cannot drive many concept cars on the road due to insurance requirements and Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements. So, make sure to figure out how to get the vehicle home if you successfully bid on it, as well as the cost.
Step 4: Place your bid: Once you select the vehicle you want to bid on, click the "Bid Now" button.
Another option is to click "Buy It Now," if available, and purchase the vehicle outright.
Method 2 of 4: Check with the dealership or manufacturer
Another option when searching for a concept car is to check with vehicle dealerships or manufacturer to find out more about concept cars they may have available. Sometimes, manufacturers actually make concept cars available through specific dealerships.
Step 1: Check with a car dealership: Talk to dealerships in your area to see if they know anything about any potential concept car sales.
You can also contact the manufacturer directly to see if they know of any sales of concept cars.
- Warning: Keep in mind that many concept cars cannot pass DOT regulations, so you cannot drive them on the road.
Method 3 of 4: Talk to other auto enthusiasts
Joining various car clubs represents another way to potentially find a concept vehicle. Sign up for multiple groups, attend meetings, and let others know what you are looking for. This gives you a direct line to many in the community who might know of someone who is selling concept vehicles.
Step 1: Attend car club meetings: Attending a physical car enthusiast club meeting lets you rub elbows with others who might share your passion for the specific car you are looking for. You can search online for local car clubs, including Car Club Hunter.
Keep your ears open, and before too long you should have a clue as to where to look or talk to find the concept car of your choice.
Step 2: Chat with other enthusiasts on message boards: In addition to car club meetings, frequent message boards online to help spread the word on the car you are looking for, such as sites like Cnet's Automotive News, Rumors, & Concept Cars forum.
- Tip: You can also post threads on various message boards notifying members what you are looking for.
Method 4 of 4: Go to auto shows
Another great resource to finding the concept car you want are auto shows. Typically held in big cities, the major auto shows allow you to see the latest concept cars and to make connections with other enthusiasts.
Step 1: Attend an auto show: The best shows to attend include those in major cities, such as Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago.
Do a search online for auto shows in cities close to you.
You can also look online at Edmunds.com to find a list of various auto shows, when they are taking place, and their location.
Step 2: Make contacts: Once at the auto show, make contact with other enthusiasts.
You can also collect business cards and talk about the concept cars you have an interest in with automotive professionals.
Step 3: Spread the word: Use these contacts to help spread the word on the concept car you are looking for.
Finding the concept vehicle you want can help you add to or complete your car collection. While expensive, collecting cars can provide a connection to a manufacturer's past, while also providing a glimpse into possible future production models.
